Key Information
Matsumoto Castle
| Type | Hirashiro (Flatland Castle) |
| Construction | 1594 CE |
| Builder | Shimadachi Sadanaga |
| Built From | Earth, stone and wood |
Learning Point
- Matsumoto Castle is a beautiful and strong castle in Japan, often called the “Crow Castle” because its black walls look like the wings of a crow. It’s built on a flat plain, not on a hill, which is a little different from other castles. Inside, there are wooden floors and stairs, and you can see how the samurai warriors defended the castle with their weapons and clever designs. The castle has a tall main tower with many roofs, and it’s surrounded by a moat filled with water, making it a very impressive and important place in Japanese history.
Project
- Draw Matsumoto Castle as you imagine it in Medieval times.
- Overview
- Black Gate
- Samurai Warrior
Location
| Location | Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Japan |
Fun Facts
- Unlike many other castles, Matsumoto Castle is built on a plain, not a hilltop.
- Inside, the castle has wooden floors and stairs, showing traditional Japanese architecture.
- A wide moat filled with water surrounds the castle, making it hard for enemies to attack.
- It was an important fortress during the samurai era, and you can still see how it was used for defense.
Past Lessons
| 162 | March 13, 2025 | (North America) |